FBS

Football

David Schwartz | Reuters | August 14, 2014

Arizona State lineman Sarafin says he is gay

PHOENIX -- An Arizona State football player has told a magazine he is gay, probably making him the first active major college football player to come out publicly.

Chip Sarafin, an offensive lineman at Arizona State, told a local gay sports magazine he decided to start telling his teammates last spring about his sexuality.

"It was really personal to me, and it benefited my peace of mind greatly," said Sarafin, in an interview in the August issue of Compete magazine.

He said he wanted his teammates to hear the news from him, and not from "the college rumor mill."

Sarafin is believed to be the first active Division I college football player to say in public that he is homosexual.

His announcement followed a ground-breaking revelation in February by defensive end Michael Sam, who said he was gay after his final college football season finished in Missouri.

Sam, a Southeastern Conference defensive player of the year, was drafted in the seventh round by the St. Louis Rams and would become the National Football League's first openly gay player if he makes the team.

"Congratulations Chip Sarafin for having the courage to be yourself," Sam said on Twitter on Wednesday with the hashtag #courage2014. "Wishing you and your teammates much success this season."

Congratulations Chip Sarafin for having the courage to be yourself. Wishing you and your teammates much success this season. #courage2014

Sarafin, at 6-foot-6 and 320 pounds, is competing as a graduate-student after receiving his bachelor's degree in biomedical engineering this spring.

A native of Gilbert, Arizona, Sarafin is involved in research relating to football head injuries, the school's website says. He also is active with several community groups, including those attempting to end discrimination and bullying in youth sports.

Top Arizona State sports administrators said they strongly supported Sarafin and praised his accomplishments.

Vice president of athletics Ray Anderson said in a statement Sarafin "embodies all the characteristics that sets our student-athletes apart and allows our university to maintain an environment of inclusiveness and progression."

Head coach Todd Graham said Sarafin is well on his way to becoming successful once his playing days are over.

"Diversity and acceptance are two of the pillars of our program, and he has full support from his teammates and the coaching staff," Graham said.

Oklahoma State won the national title on its home course last season, defeating Alabama in the finals at Karsten Creek. Led by U.S. Amateur champion Viktor Hovland and the Cowboys have won six tournaments this season, taking the Big 12 title in their previous start.